The Cost Factor of the Powder Metallurgical Structural Parts with an Emphasis on Oil Pumps
Advanced metalworking processes have been in the spotlight and continue to attract widespread attention from different sectors as they affordably redefine manufacturing practices and outcomes. Forging, casting, and other traditional metal-making methods had limitations. Either they couldn't produce intricately detailed parts or proved costly. However, metal powders and the techniques that give them precise shape and form have revolutionized manufacturing demands and environments. Large sectors like automobile, aerospace, and industrial equipment can meet the evolving market, consumer, and environmental needs backed by pressing and sintering metal manufacturing styles.
More precisely, any discussion of metal powder parts can only be done by referring to powder metallurgy (PM). This manufacturing process starts with carefully selecting powder metal for compaction and sintering the products. However, many industries also depend on PM components for cost competitiveness, which is ensured after various considerations.
Economic considerations during powder metallurgy manufacturing processes
Powder metallurgy components are more affordable than the same products produced through other technologies due to energy efficiency and optimum use of the initial raw material. Engineers and designers consider various factors to make PM parts viable for different applications. An essential consideration can be around product weight and size. Although PM processes use most starting materials, their feedstock materials are still expensive. That's why the industry focuses on shaping small and lightweight components that need less material and cost less consequently. Another crucial element is the production size. The process makes large batches of the components to manage the tooling, furnace, and other equipment cost. Even longer downtimes are avoided in this regard.
Popular powder metallurgy structural parts
Many cars use a mechanical device like an oil pump in the engine to spread oil across camshafts, bearings, pistons, and other moving parts. It is integral to the engine's lubrication system, allowing it to work smoothly without any breakdown risks. Oil pumps can be of two types - oil pump gear and oil pump rotor. Gear oil pumps are typically straightforward compositions due to their lightweight, smaller size, and easy maintenance. These parts last longer when provided with excellent lubrication conditions. However, signs of damage can appear after prolonged use. Gear tooth cap, pump casing, driven gear & driven gear, shaft, and other areas can become damaged once the oil pump loses its lubrication power.
When shopping for this PM component for your automobile manufacturing company, you must be sure about the flow rate requirement for the application. It helps you select the appropriate type and size of the gear pump. Also, there must be clarity about pressure and temperature tolerance. If the material will be exposed to high pressure or temperature, its pressure and temperature rating must be high. You must also ensure compatibility with other materials that will be part of the same application. Think of seals, gaskets, fluid type, etc.
PM components have a longer lifespan. If you buy them from a reputable supplier, you can count on your investment to be beneficial in every respect. However, ensure proactive maintenance so the components perform at their best. The same manufacturer or supplier can also offer other components or accessories you require for your application, sorting out much of your supply-related stress.
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